Wallace Collection attracts an Old Timer and Sir John Ritblat

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CITY skiing enthusiasts who have navigated the starry slopes of St Moritz are likely to recognise the vintage Old Timer – the car pictured above, that is – that rolled up to a birthday party at the Wallace Collection earlier this week.

Guests at the gallery on Manchester Square had gathered to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Suvretta House. Over the years, this Swiss hotel, which is still owned by the Candrian family, has hosted many of the elite from the Square Mile and ferried them around town in the Old Timer car to the Cresta Run or for a game of golf on ice.

One regular guest of Suvretta in attendance at the lavish (and The Capitalist doesn’t use this word lightly) birthday bash was property supremo Sir John Ritblat, who also happens to be chairman of the trustees for the Wallace Collection. And also, apparently, still pretty handy on the slopes.

Fans of Newcastle United will be disappointed to hear that MyMoneyPA has cancelled a planned hospitality deal with the club, as a result of Newcastle agreeing a sponsorship arrangement with short term loan purveyor Wonga, citing ethical discrepancies. Managing director Glenn Morrill said: “I am particularly upset and will not attend any matches at St James Park whilst Wonga are involved in the club.” Casting a curious eye over the Wonga website, which insists the company is committed to responsible lending, The Capitalist couldn’t help but notice offers to “pay my bills” and “deposit £400 into my bank account by 6.03pm today”. And all within an expedient five minutes. Guaranteed!

As the Conservative party conference drew to a close yesterday, The Capitalist, who loves a spot of party politics as much as the next person, has been reflecting on some of the less widely discussed issues to have revealed themselves during the week. Namely, that “I love Boris” cufflinks have been by far outselling their “I love Dave” equivalent. However, The Capitalist has been informed that a cheeky member of the Prime Minister’s staff purchased a pair featuring the mop-haired Mayor as a present for Cameron, who celebrated his birthday during the conference. Cufflinks specialist Cuffs & Co admitted feeling sorry for the PM, so chucked in a set of “I love Dave” for free.